Signs of Termite Damage
How do you know if you have termites?
Early Signs of Termites and Termite Infestation in Your Home
- Termite wings: Typically found after a swarm in small piles near window ledges and other light sources.
- Powder: Powder post beetles leave evidence of their presence with piles of a fine, talc-like powder around furniture, flooring and any wooded items in the structure.
- Mud tubes: These tubes are made of particles of soil, wood and debris, and they allow subterranean termites to reach food sources above ground level.
- Damaged wood: This can include wood that sounds โhollowโ when tapped with the handle of a screwdriver or wood that is soft when probed with a sharp object.
- Drywall holes or ripples: Swarming termites create exit holes in the drywall and extensive wood damage can make drywall look rippled.
- Pellets: Drywood termites excrete pellets that are kicked out of holes. These pellets often accumulate in piles on window sills, baseboards and under wooden objects.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a termite infestation?
A termite infestation occurs when termites invade and establish a colony within your home or property. These pests can cause significant damage to structures as they silently feed on wood, often leaving behind complex nests. Infestations are commonly recognized by the presence of swarmers and discarded wings, indicating that termites are actively breeding and expanding their colony. A proactive approach in inspecting your home regularly, especially the exterior walls and damp locations, helps in early detection of termite activities. Ignoring early warning signs can lead to extensive damage and severely affect the structural integrity of homes. Contacting the experts at Massey Services can help in properly dealing with infestations.
How fast can termites cause damage?
In a matter of weeks, a termite infestation can begin to compromise the structural integrity of a home.
When should I fix my termite problem?
Early detection of termite signs, such as mud tubes on your building or discarded wings near entry points in your home, can save you a significant amount in termite damage repair costs.
Termite damage is often underestimated as these pests can compromise the integrity of your home rapidly, especially when water sources are nearby.
If termite mud tubes are present, itโs a signal that immediate action is needed. Pests like termites donโt disappear on their own, so delaying treatment could lead to extensive destruction. While the termite infestation cost can vary, addressing the problem promptly minimizes expenses and protects your investment. Donโt wait to find a solution; seek Masseyโs pest control professionals help to ensure your home is protected from the devastating consequences of a termite infestation.